Learn to Sail Vacation – ASA 103, 104 and 114 Combo, Basic Coastal Cruising, Bareboat Cruising and Cruising Catamaran Certifications
Course Pricing
This is a 5-day/4-night private live-aboard course. You will not be sharing the accommodations on the yacht with other students who you do not know. A private course for you and 1, 2 or 3 other people you know, based on your schedule.
Information about the Course
103 Overview
In this course, you will learn to skipper a sloop-rigged auxiliary powered keelboat, by day, in moderate wind and sea conditions. Learn cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather, safety and seamanship.
For a full list of all 52 topics (knowledge and skills) that will be covered click below.
Cruising Sailboat Terminology
1. Identify and describe the following cruising sailboat parts, areas, or systems and their functions:
- Turnbuckle
- Chainplate
- Stemhead Fitting
- Rudder Post
- Transom
- Compass
- Binnacle
- Cockpit Locker
- Emergency Tiller
- Saloon
- Companionway
- Galley
- V-berth
- Auxiliary Engine
- Bilge
- Bilge Pump
- Seacock
- Ground Tackle
- Windlass
- Hatch
- Through-hull Fitting
- Self-bailing Cockpit
Safety Equipment & Procedures
2. List the federally required equipment for a 33-foot recreational vessel equipped with an inboard diesel engine.
3. Describe the characteristics and benefits of Personal Flotation Devices (PFD’s), both Wearable (Life Jackets) and Throwable.
4. List the ASA recommended safety equipment for a recreational sailing vessel.
5. Describe ways to keep gear and equipment secure and in their proper location.
6. Describe the purpose and proper use of a safety harness and tether.
7. Describe safe refueling procedures for a vessel equipped with an outboard engine using gasoline or a diesel engine using diesel fuel.
Navigation & Weather
8. Demonstrate understanding of basic coastal navigation terminology and practices, including
- Essential navigator’s tools
- Use of navigation charts and symbols
- Depth soundings
- Bottom types
- Hazards
- Aids to navigation
- Latitude / Longitude
- Determining magnetic direction
- Measuring distance
9. Describe how to prevent undue magnetic influence on a compass.
10. Describe the dangers of, and how to avoid, a ‘lee shore.’
11. Obtain and interpret marine weather information; describe the impact that present observations and forecasts may have on sailing plans for the next 6 -12 hours.
12. Describe and identify Cumulonimbus clouds and what dangers they may signify.
13. Define ‘small craft advisory’ and ‘gale warning’ and describe precautions to be taken for each.
Sail Plan
14. Describe the appropriate sail combinations to carry under the following wind conditions: light (0-11 knots), moderate (12-19 knots), and heavy (20-33 knots).
15. Describe the procedures for reducing sail using a roller furling jib and a mainsail reefing system.
16. Describe the benefits of, and procedures for, heaving-to.
Seamanship
17. Describe the primary responsibilities of skipper and crew.
For elements 18 – 23, describe, using diagrams as appropriate, the applicable rules for a 33-foot recreational sailing vessel, as found in the USCG Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook:
18. Proceeding at a safe speed (Rule 6), determination of collision risk (Rule 7), and taking early and substantial action to avoid collision (Rule 8).
19. Sailing vessels (Rule 12), overtaking (Rule 13), and power-driven vessels in head-on (Rule 14) and crossing (Rule 15) situations.
20. Give-way and Stand-on vessels (Rules 16 & 17).
21. Location, color and illumination angles of required navigation lights at anchor, under sail, and under power.
22. Actions to be taken when operating a vessel in restricted visibility such as fog or haze including adaptation of speed and use of sound signals.
23. Basic maneuvering and warning signals (short and prolonged whistle blasts) for inland waters.
24. Describe the appearance and purpose of the ‘Diver Down’ and ‘Alpha’ flags.
25. Describe common anchor types, major considerations for anchorage selection, and proper scope for short term and overnight anchoring as well as storm conditions.
Emergencies
26. Describe the three stages of hypothermia; name symptoms and treatment for each.
27. Describe two methods for getting a person out of the water and safely back on board the vessel.
28. Identify common sources and prevention of fires and/or explosions, as well as appropriate actions to be taken if these situations arise. Describe different types of fires and procedures for operating a fire extinguisher.
29. Describe immediate actions to be taken when the following urgent situations arise:
- Cabin filling with water
- Failed steering system
- Fouled propeller
- Failed running or standing rigging
- Dragging anchor
- Grounding at anchor
- Running aground under sail
- Engine failure
Preliminaries
30. Locate and examine for compliance the vessel’s federally required and ASA recommended safety equipment.
31. Demonstrate on shore or aboard the vessel the correct method for putting on a life jacket while in the water.
32. Identify the vessel’s battery selector switch and power distribution panel and ensure all switches are in the proper position for getting underway.
33. Ensure navigation lights (sidelights, stern light, steaming light, and anchor light) operate properly.
34. Perform a radio check using a working channel on the VHF radio.
Navigation
35. Visually pilot the training vessel in and out of a harbor, correlating nautical chart symbols to actual landmarks and aids to navigation.
36. Steer a compass course (+/- 5 degrees) under power for a minimum of five minutes.
Under Power
37. Visually inspect the auxiliary engine and demonstrate safe engine starting, operating, and stopping procedures. Demonstrate proper gearshift and throttle usage.
38. Ensure vessel & crew readiness and depart dock or slip smoothly and under control.
39. Approach a mooring buoy (or other mark as a simulation if no mooring available); stop the vessel within boathook reach; attach the vessel to the mooring using an appropriate line or bridle; cast off from the mooring and get underway.
40. Set a bow anchor in water depth 8 feet or greater, using correct procedures including hand signal communication, vessel maneuvers, safety in handling ground tackle, and proper operation of windlass (if equipped). Anchor should hold with engine in reverse gear at one-half throttle. Raise anchor and get underway smoothly using correct procedures.
41. Describe and demonstrate the correct actions to be taken while under power from the time a person falls overboard until safely recovered.
Under Sail
42. Hoist or unfurl sails correctly using halyards and / or furling devices. Describe the effect on sail trim or performance while adjusting each of the following lines and controls (if available on the practice vessel):
- downhaul or cunningham
- outhaul
- boom vang
- mainsheet
- traveler
- jibsheets
- jibsheet fairleads
- Discuss ways to reduce heeling.
43. Demonstrate correct winch operation, including safety considerations for line tension / breakage, hand / finger position, winch handle insertion / removal, and clearing overrides.
Without coaching or assistance, verbalize appropriate commands and demonstrate competence, safety and good seamanship in the role of Skipper / Helmsman during the maneuvers listed below. Honor all aids to navigation and use properly the Navigation Rules. Ensure sails are trimmed correctly and the vessel is in control at all times. Adjust sail controls appropriately as the vessel’s heading changes and wind / sea conditions evolve.
44. Get out of ‘irons’ then select and maintain a given tack and course.
45. Head Up, Tack, Bear Away, and Jibe while pausing briefly at each of the following points of sail: Close Hauled, Close Reach, Beam Reach, Broad Reach, and Run (with sails “wing on wing”).
46. Heave-to and get sailing normally again.
47. While underway, reduce sail area by reefing mainsail and genoa; then shake out reef.
48. As crew, give appropriate verbal responses and perform correct actions during the maneuvers listed above.
49. Describe and demonstrate the correct actions to be taken while under sail from the time a person falls overboard until safely recovered.
50. Lower and/or furl all sails and coil or flake and stow all lines properly.
Return to Dock/Slip
51. Ensure vessel / crew readiness and use the auxiliary engine to bring the vessel smoothly and under control to a stop next to a parallel dock or into a slip; secure the vessel using appropriate lines and fenders.
Knots
52. Describe the purpose of, and construct without assistance and in a timely manner, each of the following knots:
- Figure-8
- Square (Reef) Knot
- Clove Hitch
- Round Turn & 2 Half Hitches
- Cleat Hitch
- Bowline
- Sheet Bend
- Rolling Hitch
104 Overview
In this course, you will learn how to sail a sloop-rigged, auxiliary powered 30′-45′ sailboat during a multi-day cruise, upon inland/coastal waters, in moderate/heavy winds and sea conditions. Learn about provisioning, boat systems, auxiliary engines, advanced sail trim, coastal navigation, anchoring / mooring, docking, emergency operations, weather, and more.
For a full list of all 55 topics (knowledge and skills) plus knots that will be covered click below.
Cruise Planning
1. Describe appropriate clothing and personal gear to pack for safety and comfort during a one-week cruise.
2. Describe the required documents and procedures for customs and immigration when cruising to a foreign port of entry.
3. Plan a menu and create a provisioning list for a one-week cruise.
4. Describe the symptoms and first aid treatments for hypothermia and heat exhaustion / heat stroke.
5. Describe the causes, prevention and treatments for seasickness.
6. Describe the tools and spare parts that should be on board for a one-week cruise.
7. Describe variables that affect fuel consumption and cruising range under power, and calculate range based on average fuel consumption.
8. Describe the minimum daily water requirements for all personnel on board as well as methods to conserve fresh water.
Systems
9. Describe safe galley procedures to minimize dangers such as fire, scalding, and spillage.
10. Describe proper marine toilet operation, including precautions to prevent malfunction, and describe proper holding tank pump-out procedures.
11. Identify and describe the function of the fundamental systems and components of a marine diesel engine, including fuel, lubrication, cooling, and drive train.
12. Describe safe fresh water tank filling procedures, including identification of correct deck fills.
13. Describe power conservation measures and procedures to prevent running batteries down when anchored/moored overnight.
Emergencies
14. Name four acceptable distress signals, per the USCG Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook, which are appropriate for a recreational vessel.
15. Describe actions to be taken in the following situations:
- Collision with another boat
- Running aground
- Dragging Anchor
- Flooding
- Fire
16. Describe actions to be taken in the following situations when the vessel is under power:
- Fouled Propeller
- Engine cooling water fails to flow
- Engine fails in a crowded anchorage where using sails is not possible
- Engine fails in a busy channel
Seamanship
17. Describe the information required and the procedure for tying a boat to a fixed dock in areas with a large tidal range.
18. Describe the following multiple-anchor mooring procedures and their purposes:
- Fore & Aft Moor
- Forked Moor
- Bahamian Moor
- Mediterranean Moor
19. Describe methods and potential dangers of rafting vessels at anchor.
20. Describe safe methods for towing and securing a dinghy / tender.
21. Describe preparation of the vessel for heavy weather sailing including gear stowage, crew safety and appropriate sail plan.
22. Describe the following courtesies and customs:
- Permission to board
- Permission to come alongside
- Courtesy in crossing adjacent boats when rafted
- Rights of first boat in an anchorage
- Keeping clear of regattas
- Flag etiquette
- Rendering assistance to vessels in distress
23. Describe, using diagrams as appropriate, the applicable rules (steering & sailing, lights, and sound signals) for a 30’ to 45’ recreational vessel, as found in the USCG Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook.
Navigation & Weather
24. Explain and identify the following coastal navigation terms, using a chart or diagrams as appropriate:
- Speed
- Time
- Distance
- Tidal Range
- Tidal Current
- Track
- Course
- Heading
- Bearing
- Fix
- True
- Magnetic
- Variation
- Deviation
- Line of Position (LOP)
25. Describe the sea breeze and land breeze dynamics and their effect on sailing conditions.
26. Identify conditions that may lead to the formation of radiation and sea / advection fog.
27. Describe actions to be taken in the following weather situations:
- Fog / reduced visibility
- Squall / thunderstorm
General
28. Perform the duties of skipper and crew on a live-aboard coastal cruise of at least 48 hours
29. Locate and check the condition of all federally required equipment.
Systems
30. Perform a routine vessel inspection, ensuring that all systems and equipment are in working order, including:
- Fuel level
- Fresh water level
- Battery voltage
- Electrical system
- Navigation lights
- Instruments and electronics
- Bilge
- Through-hulls and seacocks
- Standing rigging
- Running rigging
- Deck hardware
- Ground tackle
31. Visually inspect the auxiliary engine. Check for correct engine oil level and potential problems such as leaking fluids or frayed belts; demonstrate safe engine starting, operating and stopping procedures.
32. Inspect the raw water strainer for debris and ensure that the raw water intake seacock is in the proper position for engine operation.
33. Locate the emergency steering tiller and identify where it attaches to the rudder post.
34. Operate the electric and manual bilge pumps to ensure they are functional.
35. Demonstrate proper usage of the VHF radio, including hailing another station on Channel 16 and switching to a working channel.
36. Demonstrate proper operation of the galley stove including fuel supply, lighting, and shutting down; simulate the proper way to extinguish a galley fire.
37. Demonstrate the proper method of disconnecting and reconnecting shore power cables.
Under Power
38. Demonstrate the use of spring lines in the docking/undocking process (e.g., pivoting the vessel away from the dock during departure).
39. Maneuver the vessel in reverse gear, observing and explaining the effect of prop walk on the stern’s direction.
40. Maneuver the boat in a confined space to include performing ‘standing turn’ maneuver, turning the vessel 180 degrees in a confined area using rudder position and gearshift / throttle control.
41. Ensure vessel / crew readiness and use the auxiliary engine to bring the vessel smoothly and under control to a stop next to a parallel dock or into a slip; secure the vessel using appropriate lines and fenders.
42. Describe/demonstrate an appropriate person in water (a.k.a. Man Overboard or MOB) recovery maneuver while under power and describe methods to bring the MOB safely back aboard.
43. Demonstrate one of the following multiple-anchor mooring methods as appropriate to local conditions, using correct procedures such as hand signals, safety in handling ground tackle, proper operation of windlass (if equipped) and use of a snubber or bridle. Raise anchors and get underway smoothly using correct procedures.
- Fore and Aft Moor
- Forked Moor
- Bahamian Moor
- Mediterranean Moor
Under Sail
44. Sail a steady compass course within +/- 10 degrees with sails trimmed properly.
45. Demonstrate the proper use of all available lines and sail controls (halyards, sheets, traveler, boom vang, outhaul, downhaul/cunningham, jib sheet fairleads, etc.) to obtain maximum performance and comfort.
46. Demonstrate the correct usage of a jibe preventer.
47. Demonstrate proper reefing procedures while under sail or hove-to.
48. Demonstrate two different MOB recovery maneuvers while under sail; starting from both close-hauled and a broad reach and selecting an appropriate maneuver for each initial point of sail.
Navigation & Weather
49. Plan a coastal passage from origin to destination, plotting courses, distances, and waypoints. While en route, keep a written log and plot DR positions on a chart, and calculate estimated times of arrival (ETA) to waypoints.
50. Obtain and interpret marine weather information; describe the impact that the present observations and forecast may have on cruising plans over a 3-day period.
51. Obtain updated weather forecasts during a passage and compare with visual and measured observations.
52. Take visual 2 or 3-bearing fixes using a hand-bearing compass.
53. Determine the predicted depth above or below chart datum at a given time using tide prediction tables.
54. Use a GPS / chartplotter (if available) to obtain information and perform basic navigation functions such as position, course, speed, waypoints, ETA, and tidal information.
55. Pilot a boat into an unfamiliar harbor or anchorage by day using relevant nautical charts, publications and tidal information.
Knots
Describe the purpose of and construct each of the following knots (without assistance and in a timely manner):
- Figure-8 Knot
- Square (Reef) Knot
- Clove Hitch
- Round Turn & 2 Half Hitches
- Cleat Hitch
- Bowline
- Sheet Bend
- Rolling Hitch
- Trucker’s Hitch
114 Overview
In this course, you will learn to skipper an auxiliary-powered sailing cruising catamaran during a multi-day live aboard cruise upon coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds (up to 30 knots) and sea conditions. Learn catamaran structure, components and features, performance under sail and power, boat systems, seamanship and safety, heavy weather operation, and emergency response.
For a full list of all 57 topics (knowledge and skills) plus knots that will be covered click below.
Catamaran Terminology
1. Identify and describe the functions of the following terms and structural components:
- Catamaran
- Hull
- Nacelle
- Full Bridgedeck
- Partial Bridgedeck
- Deckhouse
- Crossbeams
- Fixed keel
- Daggerboard
- Escape hatch
- Trampoline
- Bridle
- Twin engine
- Mainsail Roach
- Dolphin Striker
- Seagull Striker
2. Identify and describe the functions of the following rigging terms and components:
- Fractional rig
- Tripod rig
- Diamond stays
- Spreaders
- Shrouds
- Forestay
Catamaran Features & Performance
3. Describe the accommodations of a typical catamaran and their effect on comfort and safety.
4. Compare differences in operating and living aboard a monohull and catamaran of similar length.
5. Describe the impact that a catamaran’s deck structures may have on visibility from the helm.
6. Describe stability differences between a ballasted monohull keelboat and a catamaran.
7. Describe load-carrying characteristics of a catamaran and how weight distribution affects safety and performance.
8. Describe shoal draft keels on a catamaran and the impact on cruise planning and sailing.
9. Describe the typical installation of daggerboards and how they affect performance.
10. Describe catamaran engine placement and the effect on performance and balance.
11. Describe maneuverability under power of a twin-engine catamaran.
12. Describe the effects of windage on close-quarters maneuverability under power.
13. Describe the effects of windage on sailing performance.
14. List differences in sailing performance between a monohull and a catamaran of similar size.
15. Describe how to use the jib to counteract the weather-vane effect of a catamaran’s mainsail when tacking.
16. List various sail combinations utilized on a catamaran and how they affect the center of effort.
17. List differences between the mainsails of a monohull keelboat and a catamaran.
18. Describe indicators for and conditions under which a catamaran’s sails should be reefed.
Catamaran Systems
19. List differences in the types of boat systems typically installed on monohulls versus catamarans.
20. Describe freshwater and fuel storage tank placement and precautions on a catamaran.
21. Describe battery-charging options, including alternators, shore power and generator, and how they affect twin-engine catamarans.
Seamanship
22. Describe options for gear stowage and proper stowing procedures.
23. Describe the features of a catamaran galley and methods of working safely in the galley.
24. Compare options for hoisting, carrying and towing a dinghy.
25. Describe methods and limitations of rafting a catamaran with other boats.
26. Describe the use of a bridle with a single bow anchor or fixed mooring.
27. Describe the following multiple-anchor mooring procedures on a catamaran and the circumstances under which they could be used:
- Fore & Aft Moor
- Bahamian Moor
- Mediterranean Moor
Heavy Weather Operation & Emergency Response
28. Describe conditions that may contribute to capsizing a catamaran and practices to avoid capsizing.
29. Describe post-capsize response procedures.
30. Describe where and how to attach jacklines and tethered safety harnesses on a catamaran.
31. Describe how the structure and performance of a catamaran under both sail and power affects the recovery of a person in the water (a.k.a. Man Overboard or MOB).
32. Describe heavy weather sailing practices applied to a catamaran, including:
- Lying a-hull
- Heaving-to
- Downwind speed control
33. Describe actions to be taken if one or both engines fail.
34. Identify the emergency steering tiller and indicate where it attaches to the controlling rudder post.
Pre-Departure
35. Locate and check the condition of all required and ASA recommended equipment.
36. Perform a routine vessel inspection, ensuring that all systems and equipment are in working order.
Under Power
37. Depart safely from a dock when the approximate wind direction is (a) parallel to the dock and (b) perpendicular to the dock.
38. Demonstrate the proper use of spring lines to pivot the catamaran during dock departure and return.
39. Ensure vessel and crew readiness and use the auxiliary engines to bring the catamaran smoothly to a controlled stop next to a parallel dock or into a slip; then secure the vessel using appropriate lines and fenders.
40. Make way ahead and turn the catamaran in a tight circle, comparing the turning radius between three different engine gear selections:
- Both engines in forward gear
- One engine in forward, the other in neutral
- One engine in forward, the other in reverse
41. Make way astern and turn the catamaran in a tight circle.
42. Steer a straight, controlled course astern for at least five boat lengths.
43. Approach a mark under power upwind, downwind, and with wind abeam, in each case stopping the catamaran within 10 feet of the mark.
44. Approach a mooring buoy (or suitable substitute if no mooring is available), attach to the mooring using a bridle, then cast off from the mooring and get underway.
45. Maneuver the catamaran under power in a confined space, compensating for wind and current effects.
46. Demonstrate the correct actions to be taken while under power to recover a MOB.
47. Demonstrate two of the following anchor/mooring methods as appropriate to local conditions, using correct procedures including hand signals, safety in handling ground tackle, proper operation of windlass and use of a bridle. Raise anchor(s) and get underway using correct procedures.
- Single bow anchor
- Fore and aft moor
- Bahamian Moor
- Mediterranean Moor
Under Sail
48. Sail a steady compass course, varying the heading no more than +/- 10 degrees, with sails trimmed properly.
49. Demonstrate proper usage of all lines and sail controls (halyards, sheets, traveler, boom vang, outhaul, downhaul, etc.) that are available on the catamaran to obtain maximum performance and comfort.
50. Demonstrate proper combined usage of the mainsheet and traveler for upwind and downwind sailing.
51. Demonstrate how to get out of “irons.”
52. Perform each of the following maneuvers separately and under control, giving appropriate commands and ensuring proper sail trim:
- Head Up
- Bear Away
- Tack
- Jibe
- Heave to
53. Hold a steady course on each of the following points of sail, ensuring proper sail trim:
- Close Hauled
- Close Reach
- Beam Reach
- Broad Reach
54. Luff sails while sailing on a close reach at maximum safe speed for the conditions, noting the length of time required for the catamaran to come to a stop. Re-trim sails and note the length of time required to accelerate to maximum safe speed.
55. Demonstrate the correct use of a jibe preventer.
56. Demonstrate proper reefing procedures while under sail or hove-to.
57. Demonstrate the proper actions to be taken while under sail to recover a MOB, using two different recovery methods.
Prerequisite – ASA 101
Boat utilized and description – 4 days on a Beneteau 38.1 and 1 day on a 2019 Lagoon 450 Catamaran
This is an attractive 40 or 45 foot catamaran with 3 cabins and 3 bathrooms. This is a top of the line cruising model with all the comforts and features to make learning fun and safe. Features include: flat top mainsail, furling genoa, dodger and bimini, anchor windlass, autopilot, radar, GPS, and color chartplotter.
Boat location – The Vue Marina, Newport Beach, CA
The boat will be docked at the Vue Marina. This marina has some very nice facilities and is one of the best destinations in Southern California. This is also where the boat will be docked for the first two nights of your overnight stay. Some of the features that make this a great location are:
- Ample free parking
- Bathrooms
- Lots of good restaurants and bars nearby
- Coffee shops across the street
- Bike, rollerblade and Segway rentals within a block
- Large grocery store, 3 blocks away – Pavilions
- John Wayne (SNA) Airport, 6 miles away
- Balboa Island within a mile
- Newport Pier a block away
- Art Museums of Laguna Beach within 12 miles
- Disneyland, 20 miles away
- Numerous hotels and resorts within just a few miles
- The famed Balboa Bay Club, where John Wayne use to hang out, less than a mile from the marina
What’s included –
- ASA 103, 104 and 114 textbooks “Coastal Cruising Made Easy, Bareboat Cruising Made Easy and Cruising Catamarans Made Easy”
- Fuel, insurance, and safety gear (including life jackets)
- High quality bedding (duvet in Fall, Winter and Spring; cotton blanket in Summer) along with fitted sheets and your choice of pillows (exact selection based on availability)
- Comfortable, upgraded mattresses. If you are going to “live” on a boat, you should be comfortable!
- Bath towel, hand towel, beach towel, and dish towels
- Fully equipped galley with refrigerator, sink, oven, stove, pots, pans, dishes, silverware, cooking utensils, glasses, cups and coffee mugs. BBQ outside in the cockpit
- Hot water in the sinks and showers. “No cold showers for this sailor, thank you very much!”
- Stereo with speakers inside the cabin and outside in the cockpit
- The boat is also stocked with 15 disposable items for your convenience. (Click here for a list)
- Cleaning and washing after your stay. It wouldn’t be a vacation if you had to clean up!
Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Meet at our office inside the Balboa Marina at 10am. The address is 201 E. Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92660. There is free parking at our office. You will then follow one of our friendly team members to the Vue Marina, where the catamaran is located. He or she will assist you in taking your belongings to your sailing yacht. We will give you an orientation of the boat and the marina, as well as the surrounding area, including locations of stores and restaurants. You’ll have time to go to the store or walk to get a sandwich or coffee. At noon, your sailing instructor will arrive at your boat, you will depart the slip, and you’ll spend the next 4 hours working through 1/3 of the topics under the Knowledge and Skills section. You’ll return to the slip at 4pm. Your instructor will make sure you are properly situated to spend the night on the boat on your own and then he/she will leave. You’ll have the rest of the afternoon and evening to enjoy your new boating lifestyle. You can enjoy sunset from the deck of your boat and then cook on board, or walk to one of the excellent restaurants in the marina.
Day 2: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard, walk to get a coffee or breakfast, or go for a walk or run, or relax. You’ll have time to study your course materials and if you’re feeling ready, you can take the 103 written exam on this day. Your captain will meet aboard your boat at the time convenient for you. (The most common timeframe is for the Captain to arrive at noon and sail with you until 4pm because the wind is generally best in the afternoon.) You’ll spend the 4 hours working through 1/3 of the topics under the Knowledge and Skills section. Upon your return to the marina, the captain will once again ensure that you are situated to spend the evening on your own, and then he/she will leave. Enjoy a second evening on your yacht. Maybe sip some wine at sunset. Make a reservation for dinner or cook on board. The choice is yours!
Day 3: At 9:30am, your sailing instructor will arrive at your boat. You’ll spend the next hour or so discussing the cruising plan, doing safety checks as well as going over all the features and functionality of the vessel. At about 10:30am, you’ll depart for Avalon, Catalina. It is about a 4 to 5 hour journey to Avalon, during which you’ll have plenty of time to practice sailing, controlling the vessel under power, using the sophisticated set of electronic navigation equipment, and working through 1/3 of the topics under the Knowledge and Skills section. You also might get a chance to spot some marine wildlife like sea lions, dolphins, whales or maybe even the elusive sunfish. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
When you arrive in Catalina, you’ll pick up a mooring and set the outboard motor on the dinghy. You can cook aboard or go ashore for dinner and to explore. Spend a peaceful evening on the boat or hit one of the local bars in Avalon. Don’t forget to listen to Southern Cross by Crosby, Stills & Nash. “In a noisy bar in Avalon, I tried to call you.”
Day 4: Wake up to the birds chirping and the sun shining on the quaint town of Avalon and its surrounding hillside. Go for a walk past the famous old Casino where Hollywood’s elite used to party. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard or eat ashore. Later that morning you’ll drop your mooring lines and begin your journey North West toward Two Harbors, Catalina. While you are underway, you’ll continue to work through the topics under the Knowledge and Skills section. During this part of the trip, you will sail past many beautiful private coves along the front side of Catalina. Take this opportunity to practice anchoring in at least one of them. Perhaps you’ll even be adventuresome enough to swim through Blue Cavern Point. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Isthmus Cove and pick up a mooring for the evening. Enjoy a second evening on your yacht. Maybe sip some wine at sunset. Make a reservation for dinner at the Harbor Reef restaurant, play a game of pool at the local bar, or BBQ, or cook on board. The choice is yours. You can also take this last chance to study.
Day 5: If you are ready, this morning might be another good time to take one more of the written tests. If not, you can always take the test back at our office on a later day. There are some great hiking trails in Two Harbors. Bring your camera and good shoes. This is a great chance to take some scenic pictures of the beautiful coves of Catalina. Oh, and watch out for bison–they’re big and they have horns! Be respectful of their space and distance, but enjoy this wonderfully unique experience to see them in nature. After breakfast, prepare your vessel for the 5 to 6 hour journey back to Newport Beach. Generally you’ll be sailing downwind and maybe you’ll get the opportunity to fly the gennaker or Code 0. During this passage, you’ll have plenty of time to work on your navigational skills, motor the boat under power, and work through the topics under the Knowledge and Skills section. You’ll return to the dock about 3 or 4pm. The captain will then help you remove your belongings for disembarkation. Don’t worry about cleaning the boat! Our crew will be down early the following morning to clean it after your stay with us.
Disposable Items Provided
- BBQ propane
- Galley trash bags
- Head trash bags
- Paper towels
- Dish soap
- Hand soap–galley
- Hand soap–head
- Holding tank treatment
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfectant spray
- Toilet paper
- Dry Swiffer pads
- Boat soap
- Dishtowels in galley
- Hand towel in head
- White rags in lazarette
- Stove propane
Cost Matrix to Reschedule a Class